Buttermere

Buttermere CA13 9XA

The gentle name is no preparation for one of the region’s most dramatic lakes, ringed by high peaks with resonant names like Red Pike, High Crag and Haystacks. There is actually a fairly easy walk around the lake itself – say two hours for the four-mile stroll – which is beautiful in any season. Save the higher climbs for good weather, and don’t forget to call in at the Syke Farm tea room, on the road near the Bridge Hotel, for fantastic homemade ice cream made with the milk from their own cows. There’s no village here, but there’s a big car park, a couple of hotels with public bars, and a seasonal café.